Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and, where needed, some of the surrounding gum tissue. They can help you chew, speak more clearly and support the shape of your face after tooth loss.
The main types are full dentures, which replace all the teeth in an upper or lower arch, partial dentures, which fill gaps between remaining natural teeth, and implant-retained dentures, which clip onto dental implants for extra stability. Adults and seniors often consider full and partial dentures after losing several teeth, having trouble chewing or noticing changes in how their mouth works.
The right choice among dentures replacement options comes down to how many teeth are missing, the health of your gums, the shape of your jawbone and your own preferences. Dentures do not feel or work exactly like natural teeth, and comfort and chewing ability vary between people. Expect an adjustment period, and plan on caring for dentures daily and having regular dental check-ups. At Tomken Dental in Mississauga, our in-house registered denturist can talk you through each option.
What Are the Different Types of Dentures?
The main types of dentures are full, partial, immediate and implant-retained dentures, with flexible partial dentures as another option for some people. Which type is best reflects how many teeth are missing, the teeth you have left, your oral health and your goals.
Full dentures
Full (complete) dentures replace all the teeth in the upper or lower arch. Conventional full dentures rest on the gums and are held by suction and the shape of the mouth. Upper dentures often feel more stable than lower ones, because the lower denture has less surface to grip and the tongue moves it more.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while keeping your remaining natural teeth. They usually attach with metal clasps or precision attachments. They fill gaps, help stop teeth drifting and restore some chewing ability.
Immediate dentures
Immediate dentures are made in advance and fitted on the same day as tooth extractions, so you are not without teeth while you heal. The American Dental Association notes that immediate dentures may need relining or remaking once the jaw heals, because the gums and bone shrink during healing.
Implant-retained dentures
Dental implants can anchor certain dentures so they move less and feel more secure. Some clip on and can be removed for cleaning. Others are fixed in place as part of a different implant design. Implant treatment requires an assessment of bone, medical history and other factors. Our comparison of All-on-4 implants vs. dentures explains some of the differences.
Flexible and conventional partial dentures
Conventional partials usually have a rigid acrylic and metal frame, which is strong and can often be repaired or added to. Flexible partials use a bendable nylon-type material with gum-coloured clasps, which some people find more comfortable and less visible. They can be harder to adjust or repair. Neither is right for everyone.
| Denture Type | Primary Purpose | Key Consideration |
| Full dentures | Replace all teeth in an arch | Fit and stability depend on mouth shape |
| Partial dentures | Replace some missing teeth | Remaining teeth may provide support |
| Immediate dentures | Provide teeth right after extractions | Often need adjustments during healing |
| Implant-retained dentures | Improve denture retention or support | Requires an implant suitability assessment |
| Flexible partial dentures | Replace some teeth using a flexible material | Suitability and repair options vary |
A dental examination is needed to decide which type suits you.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dentures?
Dentures may suit adults who have lost several or all of their teeth and want to restore chewing, speech and appearance. Age alone does not decide who should get them. Your oral health, bone, general health and preferences all matter.
Number and position of missing teeth
Full dentures may be considered if all teeth in an arch are missing or need removal. Partial dentures may suit people who still have healthy natural teeth.
Gum and oral health
Healthy gums give dentures a stable base. Gum disease, infections or decay in remaining teeth may need treatment first. Some teeth may need Tooth Extractions before dentures are made.
Jawbone and denture support
After teeth are lost, the jawbone slowly shrinks. The shape and height of the bone affect how well a denture fits and stays in place.
Overall health and individual needs
Medical history, hand dexterity, ability to clean the denture and personal preferences all shape the recommendation.
Budget and preferences
People often weigh cost, upkeep, appearance and comfort when comparing options.
Alternatives to dentures
Dental bridges and dental implants are other ways to replace missing teeth. See Crowns & Bridges in Mississauga and Dental Implants in Mississauga to learn about these options. Your oral health, the number of missing teeth and a clinical assessment decide which is suitable.
What to Expect When Getting New Dentures
Getting new dentures usually involves a consultation, treatment planning, impressions, trial fittings, a final fitting and follow-up visits. The timeline varies from person to person.
- Initial consultation: Your dental professional checks your remaining teeth, gums, bite and goals. Raise any questions about appearance, comfort, cost and options.
- Treatment planning: You will be advised on the most suitable denture type. Extractions or other treatment may be needed first.
- Impressions or digital scans: These record the shape of your gums, teeth and supporting tissues.
- Design and trial fitting: Many dentures go through a “try-in” stage so you can check tooth position, bite, appearance and fit before the final denture is made.
- Final fitting: Your dental professional checks how the denture sits, how it stays in, how your teeth meet and any areas that press or rub. Adjustments are made as needed.
- Getting used to new dentures: It is common to notice:
- More saliva than usual.
- Mild soreness or pressure spots.
- Changes in speech, especially with “s” and “f” sounds.
- Some difficulty chewing certain foods.
- A full feeling in your mouth.
- Follow-up appointments: These let your dental professional ease pressure spots, check your bite and improve stability.
Start with soft foods cut into small pieces, chew on both sides at once and practise reading aloud to help your speech settle. Most people become more comfortable over a few weeks, but everyone adapts at their own pace.
How to Clean and Care for Your Dentures
Clean your dentures every day, handle them carefully and keep your mouth clean too. Good care helps control plaque, odour and stains and protects the denture from damage. Caring for dentures properly also protects your gums.
Daily cleaning
- Take your dentures out and rinse them to remove loose food.
- Brush all surfaces with a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser.
- Avoid regular toothpaste unless your dental professional says it is fine, because many are too abrasive for denture materials.
After meals
Rinse your dentures after eating to remove trapped food. Clean them over a folded towel or a sink of water in case you drop them.
Overnight
Most people are advised to take removable dentures out at night so the gums can rest, unless their dental professional says otherwise. Store them as directed, usually in water or a soaking solution, so they do not dry out and warp.
Clean your gums, tongue and remaining teeth
Gently brush your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth, even if you have no natural teeth. Brush and floss any remaining teeth carefully, especially those that support a partial denture.
Foods and habits that can damage dentures
Very hard or sticky foods can dislodge or crack dentures. Never use dentures to open packages or bite hard objects.
Regular check-ups
Regular dental visits matter even if you have no natural teeth. Your dental professional checks your gums and oral tissues, the condition and fit of your denture, and any signs of irritation.
Avoid DIY repairs
Do not reshape, bend or glue dentures with household products. These can damage the material and change the fit. Seek professional help for cracks or discomfort.
Cleaning and storage advice can vary by material and design, so follow the instructions you are given.
How Do You Know When Your Dentures Need Adjustment or Replacement?
Dentures may need adjusting, relining, repairing or replacing as your mouth changes and the denture wears. Signs include looseness, sore spots, trouble chewing or speaking, visible damage and needing more adhesive than before.
Loose or unstable dentures
Your gums and jawbone continue to change after tooth loss, so a denture that once fitted well can become loose.
Persistent soreness or gum irritation
Pressure spots or a poor fit can cause sore patches. Do not ignore pain that lasts more than a few days.
Difficulty chewing or speaking
A change in fit can make eating and talking harder and affect your confidence.
Visible damage or wear
Cracks, chipped or missing teeth, worn chewing surfaces or broken clasps all need professional attention.
Changes in your bite
If your upper and lower teeth no longer meet the way they used to, the denture or the tissues underneath may have changed.
Needing more denture adhesive
Relying more and more on adhesive can be a sign that the fit needs checking. Adhesive should not be used to make up for a poorly fitting denture.
| Treatment | Purpose |
| Denture adjustment | Relieves pressure points or fixes minor fit concerns |
| Denture relining | Reshapes the fitting surface to match changes in the gums |
| Denture repair | Fixes certain cracks, broken teeth or damaged clasps |
| Denture replacement | Provides a new denture when the old one is no longer suitable |
Not every loose or uncomfortable denture needs replacing. Book an assessment rather than trying to fix it yourself.
Dentures at a Mississauga Dental Practice
A dental assessment is the best place to start if you are thinking about dentures or your current ones no longer feel right.
If you are looking for a Dentist in Mississauga,Tomken Dental offers Dentures in Mississauga through our in-house registered denturist. We provide complete, partial and implant-supported dentures, relines to refit your current denture as your mouth changes, and repairs for cracked or broken dentures, often on the same day. If you are unsure who to see, our guide explains the difference between a denturist and a dentist.
We are a CDCP office. Call us to confirm denture options, treatment suitability, coverage and appointment availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of dentures?
The main types are full dentures (replacing all teeth in an arch), partial dentures (filling gaps between natural teeth), immediate dentures (fitted on the day of extractions) and implant-retained dentures (anchored to implants for extra stability). The best option reflects your oral health, remaining teeth and needs.
How long does it take to get used to new dentures?
Getting used to new dentures usually takes several weeks, but it varies between people. Temporary soreness, extra saliva, speech changes and some chewing difficulty are common at first. Follow your dental professional’s advice and ask for an adjustment if discomfort continues.
How much do dentures typically cost?
Denture costs vary with the type of denture, the materials, the number of teeth being replaced, laboratory work and any treatment needed first, such as extractions. Ask us for a personalized estimate and check what your insurance or the Canadian Dental Care Plan covers.
How often should dentures be replaced?
There is no set replacement schedule for dentures. Wear, the condition of the material, changes in your gums and jawbone, and how well they are looked after all affect how long they last. Regular check-ups help decide when an adjustment, reline or replacement is needed.
Can you sleep with your dentures in?
Removable dentures are usually taken out overnight so the gums can rest and the mouth stays clean. Follow your dental professional’s specific instructions, especially after extractions or with immediate dentures, when you may be asked to keep them in at first.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Smile
Well-fitted dentures can help restore chewing, speech and your smile after tooth loss. Choosing the right type, allowing time to adjust and keeping up with daily care and professional check-ups all make a difference to how comfortable they feel over time.
Thinking about dentures, or unhappy with the fit of your current set? Book an assessment to discuss your oral health, preferences and expectations, and to find out which option suits you. We can also adjust or reline your dentures as your mouth changes. Contact us to ask about denture options and appointment availability.
This article is general information, not dental advice for your situation. Speak with a dentist or denturist about the right option for you.